The Ukrainian military’s withdrawal from the strategic city of Sudzha, located in Russia’s western Kursk region, was confirmed by the Ukrainian Ground Forces’ commander on Saturday, March 15. This development marks a significant shift in the conflict, as Sudzha had been under Ukrainian control since August of last year, following a surprise military operation across the border.
In a Facebook post, the commander shared a map illustrating the Ukrainian forces’ relocation to areas near the Russia-Ukraine border in Kursk. The statement accompanying the post noted that, over the past 24 hours, Ukrainian forces had repelled 19 Russian airstrikes and engaged in 20 clashes. This intense exchange of hostilities highlights the ongoing tensions between the two nations.
Earlier, on Thursday, March 13, Dmitry Peskov, the Russian government’s spokesperson, stated that Russia’s military operation to reclaim the Kursk region had entered its final stage. This assertion comes amidst ongoing clashes and heightened military activity in the area. According to a report by the Xinhua news agency, Sudzha’s capture by Ukrainian forces last August was a pivotal moment in the conflict, marking a bold and unexpected move into the region.
In a related development, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed an order establishing a Ukrainian delegation to engage in peace talks with international partners. The team, led by Andriy Yermak, the head of Zelensky’s office, includes the ministers of foreign affairs and defense, as well as the deputy head of the presidential office. As reported, the delegation began its duties earlier this week, meeting with US representatives in Saudi Arabia. This move towards diplomacy suggests a willingness to explore avenues for resolving the conflict, even as military actions continue in the region.
The current situation underscores the complexities and challenges involved in finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict, with both sides dug in and committed to their respective positions. As the international community continues to monitor the situation, the establishment of a Ukrainian delegation for peace talks offers a glimmer of hope for a negotiated settlement, even as the sounds of war persist in the background.
